In continuation of Indian Army’s efforts to encourage sports in the Kashmir Valley, Ganderbal based Army, in association with J&K Women’s Cricket Association launched the much awaited championship showcasing the talent and commitment Kashmiri girls bring to the sport. 12 teams from all parts of the Kashmir Valley participated in the event, he said.

Numerous civil dignitaries, prominent persons, media personnel and members from the sports fraternity were present for the opening ceremony. Large audience including school children gathered to witness the opening ceremony and the matches, he said.

The Chief Guest, Maj Gen BS Raju, in his address to the teams, encouraged the young players to utilise this golden opportunity not only to showcase their talents but also to imbibe some of the most important life lessons that sports teaches. He appreciated the efforts of the organising committee for conducting the event and was pleased to see the numbers of enthusiastic audience that had turned out for the match. He declared the tournament open amidst fanfare and excitement, he said.

The tournament being one of its kind, contributing immensely towards Women Empowerment, was hailed by the attendees for the encouragement it offered to young girls, to showcase their sporting spirit, talent and dedication towards the game, as also breaking the stereotyping prevalent in the society, he said.

The exploits of the Indian Women’s Cricket Team in the Women’s ICC World Cup was conspicuously remembered by the players. The opening ceremony was followed by the inaugural match of the tournament between Team Baramulla and Team Shopian. The final match of the tournament will be played on 15 Oct 2017 at Sainik School Manasbal, he said.